How To Change Language On Duolingo [2024 Complete Guide]

To change your language on Duolingo, click the flag icon at the top of the screen, select “Add New Course” (desktop) or “+Course” (mobile), and choose your desired language. Your progress stays safe when switching languages, and you can learn multiple languages at once.

Learning a new language opens doors to different cultures and opportunities. Duolingo makes this journey easier by letting you explore multiple languages or switch between them whenever you want. Whether you’re planning a trip abroad or just curious about a new language, knowing how to change your Duolingo settings is key.

Table of Contents

Understanding Duolingo’s Language System

The Difference Between Learning Language and Interface Language

Duolingo offers two types of language settings:

Learning Language: The language you want to learn
Interface Language: The language used for instructions and menus

This separation helps you focus on learning while keeping the instructions clear. For example, you might learn Spanish while seeing instructions in English.

Why You Might Want to Change Languages

Several reasons might lead you to switch languages:

Finished one language course and ready for another
Want to learn multiple languages at once
Need to adjust the interface language for better understanding
Planning to travel to a different country
Looking for a new language challenge

Important Things to Know Before Changing Languages

Before making any changes:

Your progress in current languages stays saved
You can switch back anytime
Friend connections remain intact
Streak scores continue across languages

Step-by-Step Guide to Change Language on Duolingo Desktop

Accessing Language Settings on Your Computer

Log into your Duolingo account
Look for the flag icon in the top right corner
Click on the flag to see your current courses

Switching Your Learning Language

Click “Add New Course” next to the plus sign
Browse available languages
Select your desired language
Choose to start fresh or take a placement test

Modifying Your Interface Language

Click the flag icon
Find “I speak [current language]”
Choose your preferred interface language
Save changes

Managing Multiple Language Courses

You can:

Switch between courses using the flag icon
Track progress in each language separately
Set different daily goals for each course
Organize your learning schedule

Changing Languages on the Duolingo Mobile App

iOS and Android Instructions

The process stays the same for both platforms:

Open Duolingo
Tap the flag icon at the top
Select “+Course”
Choose your new language
Pick your starting level

Switching Between Active Language Courses

Simply:

Tap the flag icon
Select from your active courses
Start learning immediately

Updating Your Base Language

To change your interface language:

Tap the flag icon
Scroll to find more options
Select your preferred base language
Confirm your choice

Troubleshooting Common Mobile Issues

If problems occur:

Check your internet connection
Update the app
Log out and back in
Clear app cache if needed

Advanced Language Settings and Features

Taking Placement Tests for New Languages

Placement tests:

Save time by starting at your level
Test your current knowledge
Place you in appropriate lessons
Can be retaken if needed

Managing Course Progress

Track your journey through:

Daily streaks
XP points
Achievement badges
Level progression

Switching Between Multiple Languages

Best practices include:

Setting specific days for each language
Using calendar reminders
Maintaining consistent practice
Balancing your time

Customizing Your Learning Experience

Personalize your learning:

Adjust daily goals
Set reminder times
Choose practice intensity
Select specific skills to focus on

Important Considerations When Changing Languages

Impact on Streaks and Progress

Remember:

Streak freezes don’t protect across language switches
Daily goals apply to total activity
XP counts from any language

Effects on Friends and Social Features

Social aspects:

Keep following friends
Continue participating in leagues
Share achievements across languages
Maintain social connections

Data Preservation and Course History

Your data stays safe:

Progress remains saved
Achievement history preserved
Past courses accessible
Statistics maintained

Best Practices for Language Switching

Tips for success:

Plan your language schedule
Set realistic goals
Keep track of progress
Stay consistent

Tips for Learning Multiple Languages on Duolingo

Effective Strategies for Multiple Courses

Smart approaches include:

Focus on one language at a time
Set specific time blocks
Use different days for different languages
Track progress separately

Maintaining Progress Across Languages

Stay organized by:

Setting reminders
Using calendar blocking
Keeping practice notes
Reviewing regularly

Setting Goals for Different Languages

Create specific goals:

Daily XP targets
Weekly lesson completion
Monthly milestone achievements
Long-term fluency objectives

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t:

Switch languages too frequently
Neglect regular practice
Forget to set reminders
Try learning too many languages at once

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Issues When Changing Languages

Q: Will I lose my progress? A: No, progress stays saved for each language course.

Q: Can I learn multiple languages? A: Yes, you can actively learn several languages.

Q: How many languages can I learn? A: There’s no limit to the number of courses you can take.

Technical Troubleshooting

For technical issues:

Update your app
Check internet connection
Clear cache and data
Contact support if needed

Learning new languages enriches your life and opens new opportunities. Duolingo makes this journey easier by letting you explore multiple languages at your pace. Remember to stay consistent with your practice and set achievable goals for each language you learn.

Whether you’re switching languages to prepare for travel, advance your career, or simply satisfy your curiosity, Duolingo’s flexible platform supports your language learning journey. Start exploring new languages today and watch your world expand one lesson at a time.